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Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Happily Letter After in Books
Jan 5, 2021
This one starts with Sadie trying to figure out her next article when she receives a letter in the post from a young girl, Birdie, addressed to Santa, wanting him to send her some olives and some socks for her dad since she's beginning to think Santa isn't real. Falling under the little girls spell, Sadie sends the items to her in the post and receives a heart-wrenching reply that begins a cute back and forth between them. It's only weeks later that Sadie finds herself in Birdie's neighbourhood and unwittingly finds herself being cast as the new dog trainer Birdie's dad has hired when she's caught outside their house. What follows is a crazy but lovely story of two people falling for each other.
I did really like this one. It was a slow going romance between them until about half way through but it was great and pulled at my heart strings. After that, when they became a couple, it was just equal part sweet and kinda hot. They were just really good together. I don't know how to put my feelings about them into words. I loved them.
I somehow knew that something was going to end up coming out about Sadie and Birdie, they just had that connection that gave you warm and fuzzies but it did still take me a little by surprise when the actual thing came to light. I can't go into too much detail without spoiling it, just read it!
If you're a fan of these two author's then you should definitely read this.
I did really like this one. It was a slow going romance between them until about half way through but it was great and pulled at my heart strings. After that, when they became a couple, it was just equal part sweet and kinda hot. They were just really good together. I don't know how to put my feelings about them into words. I loved them.
I somehow knew that something was going to end up coming out about Sadie and Birdie, they just had that connection that gave you warm and fuzzies but it did still take me a little by surprise when the actual thing came to light. I can't go into too much detail without spoiling it, just read it!
If you're a fan of these two author's then you should definitely read this.
Laura Doe (1350 KP) rated Mother Knows Best: A Tale of the Old Witch (Villains #5) in Books
Jul 21, 2021
I love these takes on the Disney villains back stories, and this one didn’t disappoint me at all.
We follow Gothel, of Tangled fame, a lifetime before she becomes Rapunzel’s guardian and mother. We learn about her life and what drove her to kidnap the princess when she was a baby.
We learn that Gothel had two sisters, sisters that she would do anything for as they were triplets. But their mother doesn’t seem keen to teach Gothel and her sisters her magic, which frustrates Gothel more than her sisters. Their mother dies one night, leaving Gothel to take on her duties as Queen of the Dead and rule over their “kingdom” otherwise known as the Dead Woods. Gothel thrives, while her sister do not and she becomes concerned for them, attracting the attention of the three Odd Sisters.
We follow them as they try to help Gothel help her sisters and learn her magic, whilst trying to get their hands on her mother’s spell books.
In the last part of the book, we discover why she kidnapped Rapunzel and what happens before she ends up in the tower and then follow her quickly (through the use of mirrors) through what happens in the film.
I really do love these different views on the Disney villains and the thought that goes into giving them a back story, so that they aren’t just “evil”. I can’t wait to continue on with the series and hope there are many more to come.
We follow Gothel, of Tangled fame, a lifetime before she becomes Rapunzel’s guardian and mother. We learn about her life and what drove her to kidnap the princess when she was a baby.
We learn that Gothel had two sisters, sisters that she would do anything for as they were triplets. But their mother doesn’t seem keen to teach Gothel and her sisters her magic, which frustrates Gothel more than her sisters. Their mother dies one night, leaving Gothel to take on her duties as Queen of the Dead and rule over their “kingdom” otherwise known as the Dead Woods. Gothel thrives, while her sister do not and she becomes concerned for them, attracting the attention of the three Odd Sisters.
We follow them as they try to help Gothel help her sisters and learn her magic, whilst trying to get their hands on her mother’s spell books.
In the last part of the book, we discover why she kidnapped Rapunzel and what happens before she ends up in the tower and then follow her quickly (through the use of mirrors) through what happens in the film.
I really do love these different views on the Disney villains and the thought that goes into giving them a back story, so that they aren’t just “evil”. I can’t wait to continue on with the series and hope there are many more to come.
Leanne Crabtree (480 KP) rated Faking It (Losing It, #2) in Books
Sep 6, 2019
4.5 stars
Cade may have been sweet in Losing It but I totally fell for him in this one. To see him try and be happy for Bliss when he loves her; you feel sorry for him and then Max enters his life and, well I dont want to spoil it but they are perfect for each other. Max is completely different to every other New Adult female character Ive read about (and Ive read a fair few) shes tattooed, pierced, has dyed red hair and is in a band. She is completely alternative and a tough nut but you find yourself relating to her in one way or another and I found myself quickly liking her.
Theyre story is very up and down and I found myself willing them on from early on. Sure I guess when stood together they look a little odd but who cares about what others think when you love someone? (I am such a romantic!) They are perfect for each other.
Cora has this way of writing that is both fun and emotional and it is so easy to fall under the spell she weaves. I am so going to read everything else she writes. I am most definitely a fan!
If youre looking for a fun, sexy read then I recommend this book. You dont necessarily have to read Losing It first but it would help you get the gist of where Cades head is at the beginning.
It is amazing!
Cade may have been sweet in Losing It but I totally fell for him in this one. To see him try and be happy for Bliss when he loves her; you feel sorry for him and then Max enters his life and, well I dont want to spoil it but they are perfect for each other. Max is completely different to every other New Adult female character Ive read about (and Ive read a fair few) shes tattooed, pierced, has dyed red hair and is in a band. She is completely alternative and a tough nut but you find yourself relating to her in one way or another and I found myself quickly liking her.
Theyre story is very up and down and I found myself willing them on from early on. Sure I guess when stood together they look a little odd but who cares about what others think when you love someone? (I am such a romantic!) They are perfect for each other.
Cora has this way of writing that is both fun and emotional and it is so easy to fall under the spell she weaves. I am so going to read everything else she writes. I am most definitely a fan!
If youre looking for a fun, sexy read then I recommend this book. You dont necessarily have to read Losing It first but it would help you get the gist of where Cades head is at the beginning.
It is amazing!
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated The Arrival (BirthRight Trilogy #1) in Books
Oct 8, 2021
163 of 250
Kindle
The Arrival ( Birthright trilogy book 1)
By Nicole MacDonald
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Bound by love, drawn by magick, happily ever after won’t come without a fight.
Looking for love, four friends cast a spell. Thrust into a terrifying new world, they find themselves fighting for their lives, until help drops in. Now, alongside the Griffon Guard, they must learn to use powers they never knew they had, to save a world they never knew existed
Love might be an option, but only if they defeat an ancient darkness hell bent on ruling the world...
So I almost gave up on this book 3 times but I thought no give it a chance. It was incredibly hard to read for the first 10 chapters and you never knew what character was talking as it jumped from one to the other with any indication. This drove me crazy!!! But you can feel the authors passion in this book so I thought it deserved a good chance. As you can see it took me a few nights to read. However after saying all the negative there are some major positives!!
The characters are likeable the story line is very good and shows so much promise! Towards the end you become slightly hooked so much so the bloody thing ends on a cliffhanger that had me shouting nooooooo! I do recommend to any readers please stick with it!
Kindle
The Arrival ( Birthright trilogy book 1)
By Nicole MacDonald
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Bound by love, drawn by magick, happily ever after won’t come without a fight.
Looking for love, four friends cast a spell. Thrust into a terrifying new world, they find themselves fighting for their lives, until help drops in. Now, alongside the Griffon Guard, they must learn to use powers they never knew they had, to save a world they never knew existed
Love might be an option, but only if they defeat an ancient darkness hell bent on ruling the world...
So I almost gave up on this book 3 times but I thought no give it a chance. It was incredibly hard to read for the first 10 chapters and you never knew what character was talking as it jumped from one to the other with any indication. This drove me crazy!!! But you can feel the authors passion in this book so I thought it deserved a good chance. As you can see it took me a few nights to read. However after saying all the negative there are some major positives!!
The characters are likeable the story line is very good and shows so much promise! Towards the end you become slightly hooked so much so the bloody thing ends on a cliffhanger that had me shouting nooooooo! I do recommend to any readers please stick with it!
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Ruthless ( The Privileged of Pembroke High 4) in Books
Mar 23, 2024
55 of 220
Kindle
Ruthless ( The Privileged of Pembroke High 4)
By Ivy Fox
⭐️⭐️
Since before I could even spell the name Grayson, I only had eyes for one boy—my perfect, larger than life best friend, who always managed to bring his bright light into my very dark existence with just one of his boyish smiles.
With Chad, I could forget the dismal life I had of being the flawless privileged daughter of a cruel, evil man.
He was my escape.
My solace.
My hope that one day I’d be free of it all and live how I always envisioned with my green-eyed boy at my side.
He was my everything until the devil’s piercing black eyes seduced him away from me.
They call him Saint, but heaven is not at fault for his pitiful creation.
Only the devil could produce such mouth-watering beauty to hide the ugliness that dwells inside.
He’s the demon that terrorizes my days and haunts my restless nights.
Saint wants to steal all that I love, believing he can beat me, but the fool has another thing coming.
I’m Eleanor Grayson, b*tch.
You want a fight, Saint?
Well, I’ll give you one you’ll never forget.
I was born and bred to be ruthless.
By the time I’m through, not even hell will recognize you.
Got to admit I wasn’t keen on this one! Think i expected more as the I really enjoyed the first 3 something was missing. This is the start of Elles story but I honestly struggled.
Kindle
Ruthless ( The Privileged of Pembroke High 4)
By Ivy Fox
⭐️⭐️
Since before I could even spell the name Grayson, I only had eyes for one boy—my perfect, larger than life best friend, who always managed to bring his bright light into my very dark existence with just one of his boyish smiles.
With Chad, I could forget the dismal life I had of being the flawless privileged daughter of a cruel, evil man.
He was my escape.
My solace.
My hope that one day I’d be free of it all and live how I always envisioned with my green-eyed boy at my side.
He was my everything until the devil’s piercing black eyes seduced him away from me.
They call him Saint, but heaven is not at fault for his pitiful creation.
Only the devil could produce such mouth-watering beauty to hide the ugliness that dwells inside.
He’s the demon that terrorizes my days and haunts my restless nights.
Saint wants to steal all that I love, believing he can beat me, but the fool has another thing coming.
I’m Eleanor Grayson, b*tch.
You want a fight, Saint?
Well, I’ll give you one you’ll never forget.
I was born and bred to be ruthless.
By the time I’m through, not even hell will recognize you.
Got to admit I wasn’t keen on this one! Think i expected more as the I really enjoyed the first 3 something was missing. This is the start of Elles story but I honestly struggled.
postapocalypticplayground (27 KP) rated The Wicked Deep in Books
May 1, 2018
Everything a contemporary fantasy should be
I got a copy of The Wicked Deep in a book sub box, I had seen it around but didn't know much about it which is perfect because sometimes knowing can turn me away, as i'm often a creature of habit. I'm not really a fan of fantasy in a contemporary setting but this book changed my mind completely! I think that this is because the small town of Sparrow doesn't feel contemporary. Forgotten for most of the year, it's a crumbling town being slowly reclaimed by the sea. With no chain stores or high street names it's kind of trapped in time, which all ends up adding to the authenticity of Swan Season - A short time each year where it's said that the drowned witch Swan sisters return to the shore to claim the lives of men in the town. Despite there actually being annual deaths, tourists still flock to Sparrow every year. The story is also nicely interposed with chapters about the history of the town and the Swan sisters time there, which also gives it a less contemporary feel.
Before I go any further I want to cut to one thing, this book has been published by Simon and Schuster's Children's Division - so set your sights here. Yes this is a tale of darkness, murder and revenge, but don't expect it to be graphic or horrifying - I mention this as I have seen some people complain that it isn't enough of those things. YA covers a large age range and sometimes it's going to be towards the lower end and to be honest, the story telling is so fantastic that it doesn't need to be graphic or over the top. I think Shea Ernshaw does an amazing job of conveying dread without resorting to shock. That's also evident that despite the subject matter this is a really easy and captivating read, I couldn't put it down and read it in a day!
There isn't a character I disliked. The sisters were portrayed brilliantly, all reacting differently to the 200 years of vengeance and I found it a really interesting take on how they can become either weary or sharpened by this. The children of the town as well were thoughtfully considered with how they have come to accept the fate of the town they were born into, and almost embrace it like a birthright, despite knowing what the fates could have in store. I want to be careful of saying too much about the characters as there is some brilliant misdirection and a twist to this tale, which kept me on my toes.
The story feels very ethereal, from the mists of the sisters song to the decrepit lighthouse island and the run down township. Even the antics of the children at the start of Swan Season seems as if they are already under a spell rather than the elaborate dares they look to be playing - perhaps that is a spell over the whole town, in that they float along knowing what is coming yet seem in no hurry to change or move to do anything about it.
I loved this book for so many reasons and it's beautifully not afraid to be a stand alone which is so refreshing at the moment. The cover is gorgeous too! I have no hesitation in giving this book 5*
Before I go any further I want to cut to one thing, this book has been published by Simon and Schuster's Children's Division - so set your sights here. Yes this is a tale of darkness, murder and revenge, but don't expect it to be graphic or horrifying - I mention this as I have seen some people complain that it isn't enough of those things. YA covers a large age range and sometimes it's going to be towards the lower end and to be honest, the story telling is so fantastic that it doesn't need to be graphic or over the top. I think Shea Ernshaw does an amazing job of conveying dread without resorting to shock. That's also evident that despite the subject matter this is a really easy and captivating read, I couldn't put it down and read it in a day!
There isn't a character I disliked. The sisters were portrayed brilliantly, all reacting differently to the 200 years of vengeance and I found it a really interesting take on how they can become either weary or sharpened by this. The children of the town as well were thoughtfully considered with how they have come to accept the fate of the town they were born into, and almost embrace it like a birthright, despite knowing what the fates could have in store. I want to be careful of saying too much about the characters as there is some brilliant misdirection and a twist to this tale, which kept me on my toes.
The story feels very ethereal, from the mists of the sisters song to the decrepit lighthouse island and the run down township. Even the antics of the children at the start of Swan Season seems as if they are already under a spell rather than the elaborate dares they look to be playing - perhaps that is a spell over the whole town, in that they float along knowing what is coming yet seem in no hurry to change or move to do anything about it.
I loved this book for so many reasons and it's beautifully not afraid to be a stand alone which is so refreshing at the moment. The cover is gorgeous too! I have no hesitation in giving this book 5*
Gareth von Kallenbach (971 KP) rated Brave (2012) in Movies
Aug 7, 2019
The digital wizards at Pixar have an incredible dossier of Academy award-winning animated films. Their latest film “Brave“, is a prime example of the bold new direction for the company behind such classics as “Finding Nemo“, “Toy Story“, “The Incredible’s“, and “Monsters, Inc.” just to name a few. This time out Scotland provides the setting for the animation masters to weave their magic, and they do in a splendid 3-D feast of sight, sound, and color that captures the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
For Princess Merida (Kelly Madonald), life is filled with joy and frustration. As the daughter to King Fergus (Billy Connolly), and Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson), she has to walk a fine line between the duties and expectation of her mother and her freewheeling lifestyle of daring and adventure. The young Princess is content to ride through the countryside astride her horse Angus, and perfect her already admirable archery skills.
When Merida learns that her parents have summoned the other major clans so that a worthy suitor can be chosen, Merida rebels openly at their plan and causes great embarrassment to her family during a competition. In a fit of rebellious anger, Merida rides into the woods, and comes upon a witch who promises to create for the young princess a spell that will forever change her destiny. Although not done out of malice, the spell has some on expected consequences that threatens the future of the kingdom as well as the safety of Merida’s family.
The film has some outstanding performances, not the least of which is Connolly, who was an absolute delight whenever his character was on screen. Supporting work by Craig Ferguson and Robbie Coltrane complement the leads well. Since my mother is a Scot, I am all-too-familiar with not only the history but culture of Scotland. I had been concerned when I first heard the project that it would play up on certain stereotypes and miss the true complexity and splendor of Scotland and its people, as well as it’s extremely rich history which is filled with numerous technical and literary achievements over the centuries.
Thankfully my concerns were allayed very early in the film not simply because of the amazing visual detail of the movie but also because of the lovable but quirky characters. The writers and animators managed to capture the very nature of the people and the culture, which is no easy thing in an animated film. Kudos for the casting of the mostly Scottish cast who played their roles with relish. I can honestly say hearing King Fergus address the clans brought to mind my aunts, uncles and cousins thanks to the distinct Scottish brogue. I especially liked the fact that when conflict erupted (of course) amongst even the best of friends, there are some very clever ways that laughs were gained without turning the characters into buffoons or being overly cute.
While the film plays it fairly safe with the story, Pixar’s first female heroine gives us a very fun and enjoyable tale that offers something for the entire family without talking down to the audience or having to resort to crude humor. A few scenes may be a bit intense for youngsters and while it will not be cited for any technological breakthroughs Brave, nonetheless, is highly entertaining.
For Princess Merida (Kelly Madonald), life is filled with joy and frustration. As the daughter to King Fergus (Billy Connolly), and Queen Elinor (Emma Thompson), she has to walk a fine line between the duties and expectation of her mother and her freewheeling lifestyle of daring and adventure. The young Princess is content to ride through the countryside astride her horse Angus, and perfect her already admirable archery skills.
When Merida learns that her parents have summoned the other major clans so that a worthy suitor can be chosen, Merida rebels openly at their plan and causes great embarrassment to her family during a competition. In a fit of rebellious anger, Merida rides into the woods, and comes upon a witch who promises to create for the young princess a spell that will forever change her destiny. Although not done out of malice, the spell has some on expected consequences that threatens the future of the kingdom as well as the safety of Merida’s family.
The film has some outstanding performances, not the least of which is Connolly, who was an absolute delight whenever his character was on screen. Supporting work by Craig Ferguson and Robbie Coltrane complement the leads well. Since my mother is a Scot, I am all-too-familiar with not only the history but culture of Scotland. I had been concerned when I first heard the project that it would play up on certain stereotypes and miss the true complexity and splendor of Scotland and its people, as well as it’s extremely rich history which is filled with numerous technical and literary achievements over the centuries.
Thankfully my concerns were allayed very early in the film not simply because of the amazing visual detail of the movie but also because of the lovable but quirky characters. The writers and animators managed to capture the very nature of the people and the culture, which is no easy thing in an animated film. Kudos for the casting of the mostly Scottish cast who played their roles with relish. I can honestly say hearing King Fergus address the clans brought to mind my aunts, uncles and cousins thanks to the distinct Scottish brogue. I especially liked the fact that when conflict erupted (of course) amongst even the best of friends, there are some very clever ways that laughs were gained without turning the characters into buffoons or being overly cute.
While the film plays it fairly safe with the story, Pixar’s first female heroine gives us a very fun and enjoyable tale that offers something for the entire family without talking down to the audience or having to resort to crude humor. A few scenes may be a bit intense for youngsters and while it will not be cited for any technological breakthroughs Brave, nonetheless, is highly entertaining.
Ande Thomas (69 KP) rated The Name of the Wind in Books
May 30, 2019
<i>The Name of the Wind</i> is a great start to a promising series. The world of Temerant feels rich and full and unpacking the histories it holds feels like it could go on forever. Sometimes I can get a bit weary of ubermensch protagonists, but Kvothe, despite being a virtuoso lute player, a prodigy arcanist, and a deft actor to boot, doesn't ever come off as invincible. He's relatable, likable, and awkward at times, in the most lovable way possible.
I don't consider myself a high fantasy fan. I generally tend to prefer a more grounded world, even just loosely, to the limitless possibilities of magic. But I <b>love</b> the way it's presented here. I love how physical Temerant's magic is. There's a tangibility to it. Not only does it require physical material, but it inflicts a physical toll on the caster. There are real consequences to it, and it relies more on quick thinking and an alchemy-like knowledge over spell memorization and gestures.
One of the only things I can hold against the author is how many times we, the reader, simply "can't understand." Never been poor? You can't understand. Not a musician? Can't understand. If you've never been in a dark cave, if you've never seen Denna, if you've never been on stage. It's a very lazy way to explain something. <i>Make us understand.</i> It's why we read. So we can reach outside of our own experiences. I can only hope he moves past his crutches in the next book because I'm really enjoying Kvothe's story.
I don't consider myself a high fantasy fan. I generally tend to prefer a more grounded world, even just loosely, to the limitless possibilities of magic. But I <b>love</b> the way it's presented here. I love how physical Temerant's magic is. There's a tangibility to it. Not only does it require physical material, but it inflicts a physical toll on the caster. There are real consequences to it, and it relies more on quick thinking and an alchemy-like knowledge over spell memorization and gestures.
One of the only things I can hold against the author is how many times we, the reader, simply "can't understand." Never been poor? You can't understand. Not a musician? Can't understand. If you've never been in a dark cave, if you've never seen Denna, if you've never been on stage. It's a very lazy way to explain something. <i>Make us understand.</i> It's why we read. So we can reach outside of our own experiences. I can only hope he moves past his crutches in the next book because I'm really enjoying Kvothe's story.
LilyLovesIndie (123 KP) rated Little Town on the Prairie (Little House, #7) in Books
Nov 5, 2018
I must say that this book was so markedly better than the last one that I have my faith fully restored in the Little House series and is easily one of my favourites so far.
This book covers quite a large spell of time and gives a lovely insight to the life in the town that the Ingalls family have to spend half the year in to avoid being caught out by a bad winter that never seems to materialise. It follows Laura developing into a lovely young lady, her attachment to Almanzo deepens and she finally gets her teaching certificate. Meanwhile, Carrie and Grace continue to develop into sweet girls and Mary finally gets a chance to go to college, a heartwarming piece of good news for the family.
The book is a great improvement on the last one, the writing and flow is much more established, characters are much easier to relate to and also have a greater depth. Grace and Carrie are no longer minor characters mentioned by name only, they are now properly part of the family and as a result the story, adding a much needed new element to the family now that Mary has gone.
I thoroughly enjoyed the growing attentions of Almanzo Wilder. They were a delight to read and it is so touching to see Laura getting what would seem to be the perfect life for her, and the perfect man! I can't wait to see how this develops in the final two books, it would be so lovely to see them all get the happiness they so deserve after fighting for so long.
This book covers quite a large spell of time and gives a lovely insight to the life in the town that the Ingalls family have to spend half the year in to avoid being caught out by a bad winter that never seems to materialise. It follows Laura developing into a lovely young lady, her attachment to Almanzo deepens and she finally gets her teaching certificate. Meanwhile, Carrie and Grace continue to develop into sweet girls and Mary finally gets a chance to go to college, a heartwarming piece of good news for the family.
The book is a great improvement on the last one, the writing and flow is much more established, characters are much easier to relate to and also have a greater depth. Grace and Carrie are no longer minor characters mentioned by name only, they are now properly part of the family and as a result the story, adding a much needed new element to the family now that Mary has gone.
I thoroughly enjoyed the growing attentions of Almanzo Wilder. They were a delight to read and it is so touching to see Laura getting what would seem to be the perfect life for her, and the perfect man! I can't wait to see how this develops in the final two books, it would be so lovely to see them all get the happiness they so deserve after fighting for so long.
Kristina (502 KP) rated Escaping From Houdini in Books
Dec 7, 2020
Have I mentioned how much I love Kerri?? I don't remember how I stumbled across her, but I do remember the reading "James Patterson Presents" caught my attention and gave me enough reason to give her a try - I'm so glad I did! From beginning to end I have loved this series. I'm a bit sad to see it finished, but I'm quite satisfied at the same time. Kerri includes both fact, ficion, and stretched truths in each of her books, which usually makes me curious as to how much is true, so I'm almost always conducting research afterward; I love a book that makes me eager to learn. Escaping From Houdini, while conducting the same mysterious murder-solving theme as the previous two books, focuses a bit more on the blossoming relationship between Audrey Rose and Thomas, which was a delight. While watching Audrey Rose struggle with illusion and truth, I found myself both irritated at her and understanding, for Mephistopheles cast a very convincing spell. Each encounter had me questioning how exactly things would end, in a romantic perspective. Throughout the book, while I filtered through suspects and had my own suspicions, the title made me the most curious - Houdini's name is in the title, but the main magician is Mephistopheles, so it had me questioning what Houdini's true role could be. Honestly, I'm not usually good at guessing correctly unless the author is horribly obvious about it, which Kerri most certainly is not, so I was surprised at who the killer was and the motive behind the murders. I very much look forward to more works by Kerri!